"our moments of inspiration are not lost though we have no particular poem to show for them; for those experiences have left an indelible impression, and we are ever and anon reminded of them." -henry david thoreau

Where does one start after 38 days of life-changing travel? Since arriving, we have already been asked the classic questions: What was the most beautiful? The most fun? The most inspirational? What was the camper like? The best story? The weirdest event? Did you want to kill each other? The list goes on... and to be honest, our responses have been far from fruitful; in fact, most answers have looked like this: 1. Silence2. A brief moment where we look at each other, uncertain where to start3. Trying to avoid the silence (as natural extroverts), we begin blabbing but deep down recognize that we haven't even had the time to process everything.

When you have such an unbelievable "big life" experience (studying abroad, getting married, a baby being born, serving for the first time, etc.), it is at times hard to explain it all in one casual conversation. With this understanding, we are posting a few insights but there is no way these words could sum up all the brilliant moments. In the next few days (once we have deeply and personally reflected on our own 'take-aways'), we will be posting more "little stories" we wish to share with you, but until then, please enjoy this list of twenty five things we have learned while on the road.

we learned that:

Every person has an amazing story to tell.

There is no better time to drive West than in the fall.

The geography/climate of the United States can change quite drastically [Ex: 60 degrees at 6,000 ft. to 25 degrees at 10,000 ft all within 20 minutes].

Driving gives one the opportunity to explore the space in between- from one small town to the next, you see unique (and at times, raw) settings that flying does not easily offer.

There are local champions of hope making a big difference in small communities...and we have no idea.

Having a fire-starter log is much more efficient than using printer paper.

With music and NPR, one can accomplish any road trip.

Just because someone does not own a home does not mean they don't have advice to give. If you give people a chance, you likely can learn something from them.

When the government decides to shut down, don't attempt to drive through Yellowstone National Park... you will have to turn around.

There is beauty in not having an agenda.

Sometimes all it takes is a nice note from a stranger to bring a smile to someone's face.

Stopping every 180 miles for gas gets old (and expensive).

Reflecting upon ones day (no matter how trivial or exciting) is very good for the soul.

People actually read our blog and were (hopefully, at times) inspired by it.

For the most part, people are proud to be Americans.

The world is smaller than you think [According to recent studies, we are actually experiencing 3.9 degrees of separation as opposed to the original belief of 6 degrees... thank you Facebook].

There is more to Vegas than just "Sin City."

Wandering around unfamiliar parts of a city will give you perspective.

There is something about the mix of gas station ice & coke.

Whenever you are deciding between going to a chain restaurant or a local restaurant, always choose the local spot... they are better.

Reunions are worth celebrating.

Everyone deserves to pursue travel with purpose.

You can't go wrong with a well-balanced dose of some urban and some rural.

As different as we all act, look, and talk...similarities can always be found.

Your day can be made much better when you choose to think selflessly and intentionally celebrate others.

So, while the traveling has subsided, the mindset lives on. Our idea and ultimate goal has sparked interest with many people and our hope is to turn this into something that others can be a part of... please stay tuned.

“Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year. He is rich who owns the day, and no one owns the day who allows it to be invaded with fret and anxiety. Finish every day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities, no doubt crept in. Forget them as soon as you can, tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and serenely, with too high a spirit to be cumbered with your old nonsense. This new day is too dear, with its hopes and invitations, to waste a moment on the yesterdays.” –Ralph Waldo Emerson

For the past few days, we have been in Memphis, Tennessee. We volunteered a bit, tasted some soul food (for those of you Yankees who do not know what soul food is- a few specialties include: neck bone, collard greens, and yams) and, with the help of Blake’s aunt and uncle, explored a Southern city that has a rich, historic flare. Throughout our travels, we have become listeners. Listeners fortunate enough to hear from the most amazing of storytellers. From Michael, our blind buddy in Gallup, NM to Dr. James Stamper, top cardiologist in Memphis, TN, we have deeply engaged with unique people who have shared their life journeys. Their testimonies have influenced, encouraged, and at times challenged us in the best way possible and we are so blessed to have met a wide variety of souls around the United States. Today, we would like to share the story of two people who are living out hope each and every day. One main reason for stopping in Memphis was to meet Tony and Felicia Wade, a power couple who have devoted their lives to bettering their underprivileged community. We originally did not know what to expect; however, if there is anything we have learned it is to embrace this mindset of uncertainty because we find unexplainable value in stepping outside our comfort bubble. So, once again, we let our new friends lead the way. Upon meeting Tony and Felicia Wade at their beloved Divine Life Church, we could immediately tell they were two people with a fantastic and enthusiastic narrative. From the beginning, their caring, generous and passionate attitudes brilliantly shined through and despite working in a very rough environment, they have found a way to look at the bright side of it all. Experiencing a place like the Alcy-Ball district of Memphis (a place we likely would have never stopped in on a vacation to Memphis) without the guidance of Tony and Felicia would have been far less valuable so we were appreciative for their willingness to open up their world to us. Thirteen years ago, starting with nothing but their profound faith, a call to serve, and a commitment to working together, Tony & Felicia slowly began to build their community initiatives, taking every opportunity they could to boost positive change. Since then, they have launched various child outreach programs (under the title of Repairing the Breach)- leadership & development, after-school tutoring, bible studies, service project trips, etc.- with the end goal to create global leaders who recognize they are loved and beautifully created by the man upstairs. Realizing that effective community change comes from holistically touching all ages, they have created additional outlets that involve family members and others who are not directly in the child outreach programs. These additional outlets include their Divine Life Church and WADE’s House, a transitional home for at-risk women who have fled domestic violence. Each morning, they wake up committed to providing a safe space for those looking for the hope and love many do not receive at home. From hosting bible study at the local high school to passing out neckties every Wednesday to promote professionalism, Tony and Felicia have done much more than simply create a few functioning community outreach programs- they have created a local crew dedicated to using their God-given talents to make good instead of continuing down the unfulfilling road of gang violence, drug addiction, prostitution, etc. Time and time again, Tony and Felicia open their doors to people they know are involved in immoral, dangerous activities because everyone deserves to feel treasured. Visiting their community members when they become incarcerated, mentoring young females on healthy marriages, or hosting a church-run carnival in an apartment complex police don’t even enter at night are just a few of their “day in the life” events. Talk about optimistic strength and dedication. In a broken place that has lost its identity, Tony and Felicia are focused on bringing hope to those who need it most. And we are genuinely inspired by their mission. At times, when you see a broken place or hear of dreadful stories, it is easy to lose hope. To give up. To say this is not the way it should be. And the truth is that it shouldn’t be this way. But, at times, it is. From our experience, the real champions are the ones who are daily in the guts and gore of it all. The people who are doing more than just writing a check from a distance hoping it reaches someone in need. Now, there is absolutely nothing wrong with using ones blessings to help initiatives working to alleviate brokenness; however, our experience in Memphis illustrated that those who work and exist in the dark places deserve a fantastic amount of recognition. It is life changing to learn about those whose daily lives revolve around resolving a place filled with disheartened people looking for a saving grace. Those who take a chance, sacrificing a normal lifestyle to serve the Lord by repairing His Kingdom here on earth. So, let’s take an extra moment to acknowledge those champions. They are all around if you just take a look. When you see or find a champion bringing needed hope for today, admire them. And maybe even thank them. Today, we find graditude in sweet iced tea, the people who risk it all to provide hope in a discouraged community, and in yet again stepping outside our norm to experience a place through the eyes of two influential leaders.

“The world is indeed full of peril and in it there are many dark places.But there is much that is fair. And though in all lands, love in nowmingled with grief, it stillgrows, perhaps, the greater.” -J.R.R. Tolkien

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”Jeremiah 29:11

You know those days when you begin with a perfect plan but then it somehow becomes compromised by external and/or uncontrollable factors? Well when mother nature decided to turn her sprinkler on for the day, we assumed our scheduled hike at Petit Jean State Park in Morrilton, Arkansas had to be altered...but instead of calling it quits we decided to keep our spirits up (along with our hoods) and make our way to the trailhead because there was no way we were going to let a little rain ruin our plan to explore the canyon below. Our confidence and determination brought us to the bottom of the valley where we discovered that the rain was actually a non-factor due to the resilient trees draping a dry canopy above. Coming around the corner up and over large boulders, we discovered an oasis where a small pond was being filled by a steady stream of water that fell from roughly 90 feet above. The 200 foot cliffs surrounding the tranquil nook in the valley was worth our 3 mile hike and it was then that we realized how happy we were to have pushed forward, not allowing a weather detour to ruin our plans.

Upon our arrival back to the campsite we assumed mother nature would give us a break from the rain (that is what The Weather Channel phone app said at least...) but this was obviously not the case so instead of pouting we decided to try and make the most of it. We still had dry fire wood, an open-air tent, a jambox, and a few more days on the road- so how could we not move forward and enjoy the rainy outdoors? Yes, it would have been so easy to sit inside stoically cursing the rain like all of our other camping neighbors but instead we pretended like there was no rain at all (kind of). With our tent partially over the blazing hot fire, we sat in our chairs completely dry, thankful for the opportunity to be able to enjoy outside considering the circumstances.

Most days, many of us likely experience something (big or small) that is uncontrollable/unplanned & at times it is hard to not give up; however, when we courageously choose to stay the course, it can be that much more rewarding. While this story may be a bit minor in the realm of bigger unplanned events, our hope is that you too find ways to push forward & reflect upon how your perseverance has brought you to where you stand today.

Today, we find graditude in learning that Arkansas is a beautiful place, singing with the guitar around the fire, and dancing (figuratively) in the rain that didn't stop us.

Since the beginning, we have committed to "gaining newfound perspective through intentional and purposeful interactions." Looking back, we feel as though our dedication has truly sustained. Some days we find more purposeful interactions that others but it has been life-changing to at least attempt to live each day with that mindset. All in all, we know we are coming back home with a refreshing dose of eyes wide open. Specifically for the past three days, our experiences have deeply aligned with postgraditude's overall mission. Parking Rhonda and Frankie J in the volunteer lot at Rehoboth Christian School near Gallup, NM, we quickly got familiarized- hanging out with students, getting to know the passionate staff, exploring both Navajo and Zuni Reservations, and all the while purposefully searching for what God has in store for our next steps. Below you will find a few "chapters" (if you will) that detail a few very enriching moments.

what we saw: the process of making navajo rugs

Mr. Bob Ippel, a kind & fun-loving choir teacher from Rehoboth, brought us to the home of two sisters who humbly introduced us to their traditional technique of weaving. With steady hands, they beautifully craft these pieces from their sheep, their home-made dye (as in go out, find plants, and make the dye), and their loom passed down to them from their grandmother. With big hearts, they welcomed us into their iron-furnace heated home and it was then that we learned to appreciate this lost art. So often, we have no idea exactly where our goods come from or how they are crafted so it was refreshing to see true authenticity.

what we saw: a unique school with vast potential

Taking a tour of Rehoboth Christian School with Carol Bremer-Bennett (the superintendent who happens to have an amazing story and not to mention the most beautifully diverse family) we could see why the kids love to learn there. Growing up in a very broken society, many students experience wretched hardships at home so the most important thing the school can do is provide them a positive environment to build lasting relationships. Keeping with traditional tribal architecture, the newer parts of the school feature large communal spaces, natural light, red rock coloring, and the use of various materials. Very cool.

After a lovely tour, we hit the cafeteria to volunteer a little time. Throwing on some gloves and hats (think Krispy Kreme hat status), we hopped in the serving line. Blake was in charge of the whole wheat breadsticks. Hannah was first in charge of apples (classic) and then transitioned into the role of "making sure the kindergardeners eat." On a normal day, this task would be quite simple but the distraction of a little something called Halloween had the kids focused on candy and costumes instead of the apples and breadsticks. Nonetheless, it brought us joy to go back in time to the days of the lunch line.

what we saw: the power of conversation

After lunch, we tagged along with Mr. Ruthven (Chaplain/Bible teacher) and a few of his students, traveling downtown Gallup to serve lunch to the underserved. In these situations (placing oneself in a world so far from one's norms) it usually starts out with a bit of uncertainty. Who do you talk to? Does anyone actually want to talk? Do you help even if they have enough people passing out meals? If someone does want to chat, how on earth do you find common ground? The questions will always be there but if you muster up the courage to just try, a lot can happen. We both found ourselves deep in conversation with two individuals finding their way.

Blake's new friend, Michael, taught him the importance of resilience, perseverance, and forgiveness. Minutes into chatting, Michael revealed to Blake that he was blind, the unfortunate recipient of a hit and run accident. Being blind, friends have stolen his things without him knowing and somehow, he peacefully forgives. We can't say we would always have the patience to do the same. In the words of Michael, "It took becoming blind for me to really be able to see." Michael now sees the light of God and despite his struggles, he has found unbelievable strength. Even though Michael couldn't physically see Blake, his verbal and nonverbal cues illustrated gratitude in having someone sit beside him and simply share.

While Blake and Michael chatted, Hannah's new friend, Jameson (a confident & spunky aspiring fashion designer) reminded her of the beauty in being yourself and staying positive. The conversation started rather basic- the most recent fashion trends from Vogue, favorite perfume, Texan accents, TLC's new CD, how real the mash potatoes tasted, etc.- and then things quickly got real. James shared with Hannah the difficulties he has experienced while growing up on the reservation- being judged for pursuing fashion as a male, finding money for design school, and burying his father and five friends in one year. In face of all of the sadness and uncertainty, he claims that positivity is the only way to keep going. Talk about inspiring. After two hours, we left; taking with us insights from yet another life-changing event shared with those we pass by.

what we saw: new mexico from a whole new level

Five minutes from the campus, you will find some killer red rock hiking. Thanks to Jonathan Newman (math teacher who happens to be Hannah Newman's brother... Go DEACS for those who know who I'm talking about), Tim Bruinius (another teacher), and Russell Kamps (Rehoboth grad and great friend), Blake and I were able to get the lay of the land. The chalky reddish sandstone was something we had never hiked on before so "The Crevice" was super unique. At the top, we were able to a see the land from a new perspective (how many times have we used the word perspective thus far?) Anyways, the clear blue sky and unfamiliar terrain was freshly pleasant.

what we saw: the warm hospitality of a navajo family

The Carlisle family invited us to join them for a traditional Navajo experience. Don, the father, picked us up from Rehoboth and immediately made us feel incredibly welcome. Apologizing for not picking us up on his horses (they have a ranch with livestock), we hopped into his truck and headed to his mother's house for dinner. The Carlisle family is the only family in Gallup with four generations of Rehoboth Christian graduates so they were happy to host friends connected to the school's mission. Upon arriving, Blake went outside with Don to grill some recently-hunted elk and Hannah found herself with Don's three younger children. From helping Dylane (2nd grade) with her ladybug costume to belting out When Will My Life Begin from Tangled, Hannah immediately feeling back at home.

After some goofing around with the kiddos, we found ourselves deep in an emotional conversation with Don's father, a strong man who devoted his life to making positive change for the Native American community. Growing up with Tuberculosis, he was constantly rejected him-his family keeping him outside with the sheep far from the dinner table; however, an opportunity to go to school changed everything for him. His success at Rehoboth Christian School bloomed his immense potential. A man who grew up feeling so small found himself accepting a scholarship to college, becoming a marine, graduating law school, and leading as a well-respected community leader. With a firm belief in God, principles and education, he reminded us of how blessed we are to have graduated and taught us to keep our eyes open for the good each and every day. We were so blessed to have had that encounter with Mr. Carlisle.

At their home, we enjoyed a beautiful meal of elk, salmon, tortillas, pumpkin and mashed blue corn meal. Leaving their home with many hugs, extra smoked salmon (Hannah loved it) and horned toad pendants (know for their luck in Navajo tradition), we were joyously full. We ended the night in Tohatchi, driving up the Deeza Bluff to take a look at the most enchanting night sky. Piled in Don's truck with Dylane and Dally (his children), we played some eye-spy while riding up the rocky and treacherous mountain road. At the top we turned the high-beams off, stepped out, and simply tilted our heads back. Every constellation was present and accounted for, confirming we are once again a small part of this large world. We could have stayed there all night but the cold air quickly changed our minds. We really appreciated Don for showing us an activity he does quite often and we left for the night satisfied and influenced by this special place filled with amazing people.

Today, we learned. Starting off the morning at Rehoboth Christian School near Gallup, New Mexico, Mr. Blake Shue traveled back to Kindergarten to volunteer with Mrs. Gillson’s class. Below you will find a list of the following things he learned:

Kindergarteners have an unbelievable amount of energy, even at 8am

The fundamentals of learning to read & write

Recess is an absolute blast

The art of making paper airplanes has come a long way in the past decade

Becoming distracted is a regular occurrence for 7 & 8 year olds (Blake’s initial arrival did not help)

Above, you will find a video from our drive with Pastor Mike Meekhof, an amazing religious leader in Zuni, NM. First read the passage below and then watch if you are into it. Warning: we are not professionals & there may be some choppy parts but hopefully you get the idea.

After spending the morning at Rehoboth, we ventured south to Zuni, New Mexico to explore the life of the Zuni Tribe. The Zuni Pueblo is nestled in a scenic valley, surrounded by enchanting mesas and encompassing about 450,000 acres. Smack dab in the middle of the village, you will find Zuni Christian Mission School (and Church). Mike Meekhof, the dedicated pastor at ZCMS was our host for the first part of the day, introducing us to the excited local students and explaining the history of the people, their traditional beliefs, and the way in which the deeply dynamic tribe has evolved over the years. From reciting Psalm 23 with the little ones to playing hoops during recess, we were inspired by the amazing & progressive work that is going on with the children in this region. With a heart on fire for God, Mike and his family absolutely opened our eyes with their sheer dedication to making faith-based change in the community. With hopeful plans to go deer hunting, the weather had another agenda so instead, we spent time together sharing stories over coffee, stopping in a local jewelry shop, and driving through small dirt streets lined with sandstone & adobe homes. After our insightful drive through Zuni, the Smiths- Alex (Administrative Officer), Rachel (5-8th Language Arts teacher), and their adorable baby girl Olivia- invited us to join in on their daily after-school activity. Driving 2.2 miles into the high desert to take a stroll towards a mesa, we were (yet again) astounded at the natural beauty of the Southwest. On our chilly yet peaceful waltz through the soft mixture of sand and clay, we could look down to find pottery shards from hundreds of years ago and look up to see the gorgeous red tint of the mountainside. We were sincerely blessed with their local perspective which introduced us to a place we would have never walked or let alone found. Working up a hearty appetite, we gladly accepted an invitation for yet another home-cooked meal at Mike and Ardy's home. It is amazing how good it feels to be many miles from home sitting around a dinner table with people (maybe even those you just met) who make you feel welcomed, loved, and part of the conversation. Those hours of fellowship truly had an impact on the both of us and we would like to thank all who were a part of it. With plans to visit again, we packed up and drove back to Rehoboth with no music needed- the stars and some real conversation were keeping us content enough. Below, you will find a list of some additional things we learned:

When with the right crowd, you can play Dutch Bingo anywhere in the United States (this is more so on Hannah’s end than Blake’s...if you are from the Christian Reformed hood of West Michigan, you know exactly what I’m talking about).

Although Zuni has a rich cultural heritage, like communities in many places, the tribe struggles to live as a healthy community. Tribal authorities are acutely aware of the devastating effects of alcoholism and diabetes on families. Poverty, broken families, suicide, and limited economic opportunities are also facts of life in modern day Zuni. The growing number of Zuni Christians is deeply convinced that spiritual solutions are fundamental to restoration and rejuvenation (words taken from the ZCMS website).

Taking images or video footage of traditional Zuni religious ceremonies is forbidden. Thus, we were rather careful while documenting our experiences around town.

To a certain degree New Mexico's Indian Reservations function as states within states where tribal law may supersede state law.

The word "Pueblo" is used to describe a group of people, a town, or an architectural style. There are 19 Pueblo groups that speak 4 distinct languages. The Pueblo people of the southwest have lived in the same location longer than any other culture in the Nation.

If you have been inspired by the Zuni Christian School Mission and would like to help out, we recommend one of two things: 1) click here or 2) purchase something off their Amazon Wish List by clicking here.

Today, we find graditude in the cotton candy-like clouds that created a sensational backdrop, the energetic smiles of children, and in learning about a culture we would have never properly understood without visiting.

Driving into a new city after nightfall is something we have tried to avoid but the road doesn't always go as planned so we arrived at the gates of Grand Canyon National Park around 8:00 pm and could literally see nothing. A map we had acquired from the park ranger was the only thing guiding us to "Trailer Village," our home for the night. Despite the rather questionable name, it was actually a very nice atmosphere. After settling in and figuring out that cell/wifi service was clearly not an option, we headed to the Bright Angel Lodge to dine at their family style restaurant, crossing our fingers for some wireless internet capabilities (we couldn't go another night without talking to our peeps at home!) After eating a quick bite, we opened up the computer in the lodge lobby to find that we could in fact write a new post! Yay for being a part of a tech-revolved era.

This morning could not have come any sooner as the cool fall night brought about 50 mph winds and a nice soothing hail storm. Needless to say, we were very excited to embrace the day outside and finally get our bearings straightened out. Breakfast was at tops a 6 out of 10 but we didn't even notice...obviously too excited for the main attraction: more wireless internet at the cafe! (just kidding...obviously the Grand Canyon).

We anxiously, but not dangerously, drove to see the magnificent crevice that began to take shape (supposedly) 17 million years ago. Even though the wind was howling, the only word that was present in our vocabulary as we looked out over the Grand Canyon was "wow." Stretching 18 miles across and over a mile deep in some areas, it was absolutely breathtaking. The intricacies and dynamic nature of the rock formations kept our eyes completely engaged. For a while, there was silence and then an overwhelming amount of picture-taking (duh, social media calls). Oh, and the best selfless stranger project post thus far- simply because of the background. After taking a stroll along the South Rim, it was time to hit the road for yet another adventure.

Tonight, we find ourselves in Rehoboth, NM, a tiny yet enriching destination right outside of Gallup, NM. Deeply connected with the Navajo Tribe, Rehoboth is a Christ-centered community working to spread good (more detailed info likely coming in the next post). We were warmly welcomed by the superintendent of Rehoboth Christian School who invited us into her place for some home-made lasagna and caesar salad. After some lovely conversations we said our goodbyes for the night, knowing the next few days will be amazing as we explore the beautiful Red Rocks, hang with the children in the schools, and spend time volunteering for those who have a narrative much different than our own.

Today, we find graditude in confirming that the Grand Canyon is in fact quite grand, knowing that even though we are thousands of miles from our home we can always feel welcome in someone else's, and in dedicating our time to help out while we have it.

This weekend, we attended the inaugural Life is Beautiful Music Festival in Las Vegas and found ourselves positively reassured that life is in fact beautiful.

From swimming next to sharks in a desert heated pool to uncontrollably laughing with faces we have missed or galavanting around the urban streets of Old Las Vegas where the infamous "rat pack" used to hang (SInatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr.), we experienced an array of life-loving moments. If you have never been to Las Vegas, we recommend seeing it at some point in your life. There is something enchanting about the atmosphere- the lights, the glitz & the glam, how it magically makes you feel quite young and free. And despite the constant scent of cigarettes, the sheer gluttony emanating at all hours in the casinos and the stigma surrounding all that "Sin City" has to offer, we found ourselves feeling invigorated by the constant energy.

At the music festival, we were blessed to be able to share a new experience with various artsy folks from near and far. Whether dancing our hearts out to When We Were Young by The Killers, tasting some of the best food (Bronze Cafe's Pita Sandwich, The Rebel Hot Dog at Sin City Dogs, Nacho Daddy's Steak Tacos), or admiring the beautiful & contemporary street art, it was hard to get away from the fact that we are all in this together. "This" being life in general. In each and every way, whether your current life revolves around your child's soccer game, desk daydreams, or advising students in a classroom, there can be moments that deeply unify all of us. Yes, maybe this is just a little 'hippie' vernacular slipping through but think about it. For us, we were interconnected with so many different people via the love of music, food, and art. When you are surrounded by loved ones and strangers alike, singing the same song and clapping to one beat, you almost feel a part of a greater team.

And think of how much better it would be if we, as a team, together commit to living each day believing that life is beautiful. Life is Beautiful in Las Vegas reminded us of that simple mindset we get away from at times. For us, life was beautiful because we were listening to amazing live tunes with good company and exploring an unfamiliar place. For you, life may have been beautiful for a whole other reason. But together, let’s intentionally find why life was beautiful today.

Today (and for the past few days), we find graditude in the music bringing people from all walks and talks together, realizing the phrase “go to Vegas for a day, stay for a week” is well justified, and living the beautiful life.

You know the feeling when you try your best to describe something (a place, a moment, a trip, etc.) to someone who was not there and you just can't quite put it into proper words? That is the sense we currently have while attempting to share with you our experiences in Yosemite National Park. You can google all the pictures as you want or ask friends who have been but until you stand in the Yosemite Valley, the emotions are difficult to express.

Being in Yosemite National Park, we were overwhelmed with the presence of a beautiful balance. With every tall peak came a deep valley. Our uphill hike to Vernal Falls on the Mist Trail was paired with a needed summit rest (and a game of cards) in the October sunshine. With the setting sun casting a deep red tint on a mountain surface came the blue reflection of a morning moon on that same surface. Our morning run was coupled with a breakfast break at the Curry Village Coffee Corner. Nervously entering the park with no reservation, our uneasy mindset was soon alleviated with the help of a calm, cool, and collected park ranger. And the secluded nature of the valley was paired with a sold-out campsite full of adventurers ready to explore.

Today, we are reminded that life is good when one has a bit of balance. Some classy skyscrapers mixed with some wild redwoods. Moments of reflective silence and others when you can't even hear your own self talking. Some winter and some summer. Moments that exhaust you and others that make you feel quite alive. A bit of work and a bit if play. Climbing up to feel the comfort in coming down. You get the idea and hopefully your today has the balance we all need at times.

Today, we find graditude in balance, blindly sharing doughnuts with a park ranger (see picture), and experiencing a place that is at least worth trying to talk about.

for the next twenty-four hours, we will be without wifi capabilities in the national park so the post may be a bit delayed...stay tuned.

“Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

When you get used to one place, it is at times hard to move on to the next. For the past 5 days we have become accustomed to room service, a wide array of people, and amenities that far outweigh those that Rhonda (coming in at a whopping 16 X 6.5 ft) can currently provide. After picking up our full rig (Rhonda and Frankie J) in Napa, we quickly shifted gears in more ways than one. To be honest, it took a while moving from the glitz and glam of a city to the rural and rugged terrain of Groveland, CA (24 miles outside of Yosemite National Park).

We didn't know exactly where in Yosemite we were heading and once we entered the mountains, the lack of 3G was far from convenient. As members of our generation, it is almost a sin to not have immediate service so we of course felt a sense of frustration. Maybe through our limited connection we would have found a vintage form of adventure, thrill, and opportunity, but it did not feel that way in the beginning. Internally, we were comparing it to the environment we experienced 3-hours earlier.

It seems as though switching from one scene to the next is easier said than done (Ex: Switching from vacation mode to work mode, moving from your room at home to your college dorm, or switching from a house filled with kids to an "empty-nester" household... the list goes on). Today, we would like to courageously admit that we positively embraced each moment, but it genuinely took a while to get back into the wilderness. Dirt back in the boots. Not seeing without the aid of a headlamp. Smokey clothes from the campfire. The process of getting from point A to point B, etc. Now that we are here proactively reflecting, we do find contentment. Looking back, we wished we would have spent more time appreciating the shift than complaining about the subtle adversities that you must deal with when traveling like this, but, nonetheless, we are here and we are alive. Fortunate in so many ways and for that, we must accept our natural surrounding. Thus, we have sculpted a list of the greatness this environmental shift has brought. The highlights of the day include the following:

Trying our first In N' Out Burger. For those curious, they are as good as you have heard. We did not complete the blind 'pay it forward' event noted on our checklist because Rhonda did not fit through the drive-through BUT it will occur on the next leg.

Going to Iron Door Saloon, the oldest operating drinking establishment in California, dating back to 1852.

A "pull-through" campsite instead of a "back-in" campsite. For those unfamiliar with camping, this is a blessing.

Grabbing delicious ingredients for a fire-side meal while also sharing extra coupons with the grateful couple behind us.

Feeding the goats, llamas, and lambs in Yosemite Pines Campground- evidently, they love apples as much as Hannah does (picture below).

Today, we find graditude in exploring a historic mining town with 160 years of history, roasting s'mores after a 5 day withdrawal, and learning that a positive attitude does truly enhance new environments.